Category: Top articles

Jon Epley: The Heartfelt Songwriting and Baritone Voice of Greater Vision

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JEFF TURNER

Jon Epley, the baritone singer for Greater Vision, isn’t just known for his powerful vocals. Since joining the group in April 2017, Jon has occasionally contributed his songwriting talents, adding a special touch to the group’s musical repertoire. One of his recent works, “Your Healing Is On the Way,” is Greater Vision’s newest song, offering a message of hope and comfort to those who need it most.

Though Jon doesn’t consider himself a prolific songwriter, he finds the creative process deeply rewarding. “I just don’t sit down and write a lot, but whenever I do get a chance to write a song, it’s always so fun to me for the Lord to just pour the lyrics into me,” Jon shares. His process is one of inspiration and devotion, often beginning with a moment at the piano where he explores chord progressions and melodies. “I just really enjoy the process. So I don’t do it a lot, but I enjoy it whenever I get to do it. And it’s always a blessing when the Lord does give me a song,” he adds.

Greater Vision, founded in 1990 by Gerald Wolfe, has made an indelible mark on Southern Gospel music. Known for their rich harmonies and heartfelt lyrics, the trio continues to be a leading group in the genre. Jon’s role as a songwriter adds to the group’s depth, bringing fresh, spiritually uplifting music to audiences.

With his heartfelt songwriting and steady baritone voice, Jon Epley continues to contribute to the legacy of Greater Vision, a group that remains a favorite in the world of Southern Gospel music.

Triumphant Quartet heads to Ontario as latest release tops SN charts

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JEFF TURNER

Triumphant Quartet is once again making waves in the Southern Gospel world. Their latest radio single, God Is Listening, will be sitting at the #1 spot on the Singing News Magazine Top 80 chart for the month of October, according to a recent email from the group. This accomplishment is a testament to their powerful message and musical impact that continues to resonate with audiences across the country.

Fans of the quartet can experience their live performances this month as they take their concert tour to two key locations in Ontario. On Saturday, September 14, 2024, Triumphant will be performing at The Metropolitan Bible Church in Ottawa, Ontario, with the concert starting at 6 p.m. The following day, Sunday, September 15, 2024, they will appear at Wesley Acres – Douglas Memorial Center in Bloomfield, Ontario, for a morning concert beginning at 10 a.m. Both venues are sure to be filled with worship and joy as fans gather to celebrate the message of God’s listening ear through the music of Triumphant.

Additionally, a special congratulations is in order for Sean Barber, who has just celebrated his one-year anniversary as the bass singer for the quartet. His deep, resonant voice has been a key addition to the group, and his contributions over the past year have helped solidify Triumphant’s continued success.

If you can’t make either performance, you can hear Triumphant’s music throughout the day on Texas Gospel Canada!

Mark Trammell Shares Encouraging Update on His Wife’s Recovery

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JEFF TURNER

In an update to our previous story, Mark Trammell reports that his wife, LeResa, is continuing to improve after her recent battle with a clot and severe meningitis. Her journey has been filled with challenges, but the progress she’s making is nothing short of miraculous.

Mark shared the latest news, saying, “The Neurology team has signed off on the success of her clot and meningitis treatments. They have been successful at returning brain and body function. She is very much aware of her environment and what has happened. Her upper body movement and strength is improving a bit faster than legs and feet, which the Infectious Disease Dr said it probably would, in light of her having the type of severe meningitis that was present. All in all, we have witnessed an undeniable miracle!”

LeResa’s recovery continues as she moves into the next phase of her treatment. The family received the green light on Wednesday to transfer her to in-patient rehab, where she will undergo physical therapy to regain more strength and mobility.

Mark’s words reflect the gratitude and faith that have carried the Trammell family through this difficult time. With LeResa now entering this crucial stage of recovery.

The Craguns Share Their Faith Through Song

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JEFF TURNER

The Craguns are a family united not only by blood but by a shared mission to spread faith through their music. This dynamic group consists of husband and wife duo Jordan and Elena Cragun, Jordan’s father, Ray Cragun, and his sister, Savannah Cragun. Each member brings a unique element to the group, enriching their ministry and music.

Jordan and Elena Cragun have dedicated their lives to full-time ministry, using their talents to inspire and uplift audiences across the country. Ray Cragun, who has a deep well of experience as a retired pastor, brings wisdom and spiritual guidance to the group, while Savannah’s fresh energy adds a vibrant touch to their performances.

Their journey in music ministry began in earnest in 2013 with the release of their first album. Since then, they have continued to grow in both their musical abilities and their impact on those who hear their message.

One of their standout songs, “Wasted Words,” carries a message that resonates deeply with the group’s core beliefs. Jordan Cragun reflects on the song’s significance, saying, “The song says whether you talk all the time or maybe this time is your first. With God, there’s no wasted words. I am so thankful for a God who cares about everything we face and that we can go boldly to him with our petitions and our concerns and even our praises.”

This song, like many others by The Craguns, serves as a reminder of God’s ever-present care and the importance of faith in every aspect of life. Their music speaks to the heart, offering comfort, hope, and a sense of connection to the divine.

As The Craguns continue their ministry, they remain committed to using their voices not just to sing, but to communicate the deep truths of their faith. Whether on stage or in personal conversations, they live out the message of “Wasted Words,” knowing that with God, every word matters.

Celebrating Faith and Resilience: Debra Perry and Jaidyn’s Call’s New Song “The Sound Of His Voice”

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JEFF TURNER

Debra Perry-Reed, known as the original soprano of the beloved Southern Gospel group The Perrys, has spent years touching hearts with her music. Today, she leads her own group, Debra Perry and Jaidyn’s Call, named in honor of her son Jaidyn, whose life has been a powerful testimony of faith, hope, and the enduring love of God.

Jaidyn was born with a rare condition called Hydranencephaly, a diagnosis that left doctors with little hope for his survival beyond his first year. But in a miraculous journey that defied all odds, Jaidyn recently celebrated his 18th birthday—a milestone that speaks volumes about the power of prayer and the strength of his family’s faith.

The purpose of Jaidyn’s Call is not only to share their music but also to share their testimony of God’s grace through the challenges they’ve faced with Jaidyn and their daughter Ashley. Each performance is a testament to the miracles they’ve witnessed and the unwavering belief that God is with them every step of the way.

Debra Perry and Jaidyn’s Call’s latest song, “The Sound Of His Voice,” is a beautiful reflection of this faith. In Debra’s words, “This is a Bible song. It talks about how the Lord put the world into existence, how his voice turned the darkness to light.” The lyrics resonate deeply with the group’s mission, reminding listeners of the power and authority of God’s voice in every aspect of life.

“His words prevailed, but they never failed to show us his power and mind,” Debra continues, capturing the essence of the song. “The seas roll apart at his bidding, and the mountains move as he demands. He can whisper or shout, but without a doubt, the whole world is at his command.”

This week, as Jaidyn was admitted to the hospital for a virus, the message of this song becomes even more poignant. It serves as a reminder that even in the most challenging moments, the sound of God’s voice is a constant source of comfort and strength. For Debra, Christopher, and their family, it’s a song that reflects their journey—a journey marked by divine intervention, perseverance, and an unwavering trust in the Lord.

“The Sound Of His Voice” is more than just a song for Debra Perry and Jaidyn’s Call; it is a declaration of faith that continues to inspire and uplift everyone who hears it. As they share their music and their testimony, they remind us all of the power of God’s voice in our lives, guiding us through the darkest valleys and leading us into the light.